Interactive point access financial and information system

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a remote interactive point access banking and information system. Particularly, the invention discloses an integrated set of platforms presenting various service and transaction options to a customer. The invention enables a customer to access personal account information, apply for a loan, make commercial deposits and videoconference, in real-time, with a bank representative at the main office. A software implemented in preferably a mainframe computer provides direct access to the bank&#39;s database to which a customer is able to connect to execute transactions. One of the many aspects of the invention includes a plurality of platforms integrated to provide the customer with a full banking service such that the customer is enabled to access and execute all major transactions including internet and fax communications. The invention further provides the customer with information regarding banking services, other investment and finance related intelligence. The invention is modular and expandable to be compatible to emerging technologies such as the internet/intranet, cellular systems and high bandwidth digital communications so that both individual and institutional customers may be able to access full banking services from remote locations. Further, the invention is expandable to enable customers to access their account and execute transactions via the internet worldwide.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a method and apparatusfor a remote interactive point access financial and information systemimplemented to provide an integrated platform of services includingvideoconferencing, a customized automated teller machine (ATM) andcommercial depository. The system provides a full service virtual bankto a customer and enables transactional engagement, remotely, on ademand basis at high levels of availability, preferably, seven days aweek, 24 hours a day. Specifically, the videoconferencing unit isintegrally implemented to provide real-time, face-to-face sessions witha bank representative based on audio-visual communications and interfaceremotely initiable by the customer. More specifically, the systemenables the customer to access and execute all major transactions on ademand basis including withdrawals, deposits, loans and investmentinformation and further serves as a medium for information from multiplesources.

[0003] 2. Description of Related Art

[0004] The use of a remotely installed access banking center (ABC), suchas an ATM, is well known in the prior art. Particularly in the lastdecade, ATMs have evolved as a preferred center for consumers toremotely withdraw monies and execute specialized deposits. While eachATM is tailored to comply with certain marketing and service objectivesof the proprietary institution the structural organization including thetechnology of ATMs remain generally familiar and unchanged.

[0005] It is well known that commercial banks operate in a highlycompetitive environment. The popularity of ATMs has prompted aproliferation of remote services including small staff offices locatedin strategic consumer-frequented forums such as supermarkets, theaters,shopping malls, airports and similar locations. These small officesoperate as extensions of the main office and serve customers on site toexecute various transactions which are not normally handled by an ATM.Accordingly, the competitive imperatives and consumer preferences imposean increasing demand to access the full service of a personal bank, on ayear round 24-hour basis, at a remote location. In this regard, thesmall extension offices are not only limited in number, availability andthe type of services they could provide but are also labor intensive andnot conducive to a broad network and universal distribution of remoteABCs.

[0006] There is a paradigm shift in remote banking services. This isprimarily driven by technology and customers' preference to executepersonal banking and financial transactions at a place close, forexample, to their residence, work place, shopping, entertainment and ortravel location. High speed digital communications including advances indata, image transfer/exchange and the internet have empowered customersto have virtual access and command of their bank and investmentaccounts. A more likely future development is to enable customers tohave remote access to a full banking service via the internet. Yetanother likely future development may include the use of a digitalcellular phone which incorporates a modem and a PC function to remotelyaccess full banking services and may be a feasible medium for remotevideo teleconferencing.

[0007] While some of these developing technologies are set to change thenature of personal banking services, current methods remain for the mostpart limited to ATMs and low level technology-based peripheral services.For example the only current method for a user/customer to accessaccount information or to make a transaction, is to call the bank via aphone or to use Infobank^(SM).

[0008] Accordingly, there is a need to provide a remote banking stationwith comprehensive features to enable timely and efficient access forcustomers to banking services including provision of information oninvestment and related products.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide aninteractive point access financial services, transaction, investment andinformation system structured to be modularly expandable. The systempreferably includes, inter alia, a remote ATM, videoconferencing,information and data displays and commercial depository platformsstructured to enable a customer to remotely access and execute a numberof desired transactions including deposits, withdrawals, loans andfurther interact with a bank representative in real time.

[0010] It is yet another object of the invention to provide aninteractive point access financial and information system for processingbanking transactions to enable at least one customer and a banker toremotely exchange real-time data, sound and image to processtransactions based on the customer's choices. The system includesmodularly structured and integrated platforms at the customer station.These platforms are independently activated by the customer to accessand execute various transactions. Specifically, the customer is able toaccess an ATM with customized features, a night depository and avideoconferencing system. Further, the remote station is equipped withinteractive information resources selectively operable by the remotecustomer.

[0011] Yet a further object of the invention includes a virtualfinancial services system including a virtual retail work stationwherein an ATM, a commercial depository, a videoconferencing module,information and transaction platforms are integrated to provide anexpandable interactive banking module. The system is operated by acomputer-implemented software which enables direct access to data andtransactions by the customer. Specifically, the customer is enabled toremotely process checking accounts, use a cash card or check card,Charge a check^(SM), use Infobank^(SM), check order/reorder, executedirect deposit authorization, access saving account information andreview personal financial profiles. Further new account applications maybe submitted using a scanner. The scanner is also implemented toremotely submit identification and similar information to enhance remotesecurity and promote remote processing of applications and transactionswhich require personal identification. Accounts may be opened with azero balance. Deposits may be made through direct deposit options or viathe commercial depository with the original documents from the accountopening.

[0012] Another object of the present invention includes an interactivevideo conferencing system which enables face-to-face interview andconversation with a bank representative. The system includes after hourmessage features which enable customers to leave messages for futurecontact with bank representatives. Generally, the videoconferencingsystem incorporates video and sound processing systems including atelephone receiver, a scanner and printer at the customer station.Further, at the representative station in the bank, the videoconferencing system includes an alert system to indicate to therepresentative the presence of a customer at the remote station, a videoand sound processing system, and a printer. The representative mayassist the remote customer in opening new deposit accounts, assist indirect deposit capability, reorder checks, provide general informationregarding loans, forward loan application for completion, discussadditional product offerings of the bank and answer customer servicerelated questions. The system also incorporate on screen informationregarding the bank's new products and services and further incorporatesa deposit and loan calculator. In the event the representative is notavailable to the customer a menu option presents a split screen toenable the customer to submit personal data, such as email address forexample, so that a banker may contact the client at a later time.

[0013] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide anATM machine with enhanced features to cooperate with the other elementsof the invention. Some of the major features of the ATM include cashwithdrawal, deposits and provision of coupons for the bank products orservices. The ATM also includes enhanced features such as dispensingevent tickets, discount coupons or similar promotional literature.

[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide acommercial depository with a primary use for corporate, business orinstitutional depositors and a secondary use as a drop off for originaldocuments relating to consumer transactions such as account application.

[0015] Specific advances, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become apparent upon examination of the followingdescription and drawings dealing with several specific embodimentsthereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016]FIG. 1A is a frontal elevation view and a plan view presenting amodular structure of the present invention;

[0017] FIGS. 1B-1D represent a plan view of various arrangements andoutline of the platforms tailored to fit within a space plan;

[0018]FIG. 2 is an elevation view of an enhanced ATM platform embodimentin accordance with the present invention;

[0019]FIG. 3 is an elevation view of a commercial depository platformembodiment in accordance with the present invention;

[0020]FIG. 4 is an elevation view of a videoconferencing platformembodiment in accordance with the present invention;

[0021]FIG. 5 is a representative layout of the embodiment of a stationin the bank;

[0022]FIG. 6 is a conceptual outline of the implementation of thepresent invention in a computer;

[0023]FIGS. 7A and 7B represent a flow chart of the high level softwarelogic for the enhanced ATM and the display at the monitor respectively;

[0024]FIGS. 8A and 8B represent a flow chart of the high level softwarelogic for the videoconferencing system at the customer station and thebank representative station, respectively;

[0025]FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D and 9E represent new loan account openingwork flow process in accordance with the present invention;

[0026]FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C represent new checking account work flowprocess in accordance with the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 11 is a flow chart representing the high level logic of acommercial deposit; and

[0028]FIG. 12 is a flow chart representing the interface system and highlevel logic of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0029] The present invention provides a remote banking station to enablecustomers to access full banking and financial services. With referenceto FIG. 1, the invention is modularly structured and provides anenhanced ATM platform 10, a commercial deposit platform 12 and avideoconferencing platform 14. Each platform is independently accessibleto serve a plurality of customers. The system is space and volumeoptimized to fit in malls, stores, airports, hotels and any publicplaces frequented by current or potential customers.

[0030] A more detailed representation of customized ATM platform 10 isshown in FIG. 2. The platform includes ATM 16 and information screen 18.ATM 16 includes a custom design screen with several features. ATM 16advantageously provides, inter alia, cash withdrawal with receipt,deposit with receipt, balance enquiry for checking or savings, and fundtransfers between various accounts including checking and savings.Information screen/monitor 18 provides continuous and customerresponsive information relating to stock quotes, time and temperature,news highlights, breaking news (national and international), other bankspecific information such as rates, ads/posters, videos, productspecials, promotions, product service seminars and product data.Further, side panels 20 provide space for advertising and announcements.The displayed data on screen 18 is preferably customer interactive andprovides the customer with options to select and review information asneeded. As will be discussed hereinbelow, data on screen 18 ispreferably updated from a central location and includes a capability totailor various market specific messages for simultaneous broadcast toseveral remote bank stations at different locations. ATM 16advantageously provides the customer with hitherto unavailable options.For example, upon initiation by the customer, a mini-statement showingdeposits, checks cleared, ATM and electronic transactions can beobtained. Further, ATM 16 is equipped to advantageously dispense eventtickets, promotional coupons and the like at the customers' request.Furthermore, ATM 16 includes menus that are internet/intranet compatibleto enable the customer to access accounts and conduct transactions asneeded.

[0031] Referring next to FIG. 3, commercial deposit platform 12 isshown. The platform includes commercial depository box 22 with supplies.Screen 24 carries messages similar to that of screen 18. In thealternate, screen 24 provides menu-driven commercial deposit and relatedinstructions including access to deposit accounts, balance and statusreports. Side panels 26 provide space for deposit related advertisementand announcement and possible expansion space for additional screens.

[0032] An elevation view of videoconferencing platform 14 is depicted inFIG. 4. The platform includes sound and image reception/transmittalportal 28. Portal 28 preferably includes a monitor, a phone, a keyboard,printer, scanner and image processor. The platform also preferablyincludes monitor 30 which is similar to screens 18 and 24. The systempreferably utilizes an ISDN communications system or equivalent to sendimage and data from the customer station to the bank. Location 32 isstructured to house a scanner and a printer for use by the customer tosend/receive documents. As will be discussed hereinbelow, the scannerand printer at videoconferencing platform 14 enable document exchangeand transfer between the customer station and the bank representative.Further document and paper storage and catch basket 34 is implemented tostore paper, application forms and related documents for use by thecustomer. Side panels 36 provide space for advertisements, announcementsand the like.

[0033] Videoconferencing platform 14 is one of the many innovativefeatures of the present invention. The customer is enabled, inter alia,to interact with a bank representative face-to-face on a real timebasis. Like all the other platforms, videoconferencing platform 14includes a software system designed to provide information andfunctionality as if the customer were engaged in a face-to-faceinteraction with the remote bank representative. As is disclosedhereinbelow, the software program logic is robust and user friendly andprovides the customer with various options to access and choose amongvarious bank services. Platform 14 also includes interactive tools suchas loan and deposit calculators, for example.

[0034] Directing attention to FIG. 5, a remote representative station 40is shown. It is centrally located in the bank such as assigneesheadquarters in Minneapolis. Station 40 preferably includes a monitor 42and keyboard 44 connected to a local area network (LAN) system. Station40 further includes video screen 46 and voice and image processor 48.Alert system 50 is preferably integrated with video screen 46. Alertsystem 50 is preferably a probe light, radio signal or equivalent and isimplemented to alert the bank representative of the presence of acustomer at platform 14 requesting a videoconferencing session.

[0035]FIG. 6 depicts one embodiment of the underlying computer system ofthe present invention. Computer 60 includes memory and implementedsoftware to operate the various data transfer and transactionalprocesses between the customer station or stations and the bank.Computer 60 may preferably include a plurality of servers forming a LANnetwork. Computer 60 is in operative electronic connection with display62 and mouse 64. The software in the present invention is initiated by amenu driven command means and the user/programmer is enabled to interactwith the software via keyboard 66 at the display 62 and mouse 66.

[0036] The embodiment of FIG. 7A depicts a high level logic flow chartrelating to customized ATM 16. The program is initiated at logic step70. Subsequently the program proceeds to logic step 72 where a menu isdisplayed. The menu may request the customer to enter such data as maybe deemed necessary to identify the customer. The program advances todecision step 74 where it is confirmed that all the necessary disclosurehas been made or entered. In the event the customer fails to comply withthe menu requirements, the program reverts back to pre logic step 72where after a predetermined number of trials a “please contact yourpersonal banker” message may be posted. If all the required informationis entered, the program logic proceeds to logic step 76 and displays aset of menus from which the customer is asked to choose. One of the menudisplays includes logic step 78 where a cash withdrawal with a receiptoption is displayed. Similarly various other options such as balanceinquiry 80, fund transfer 82, financial profile 84, ticket or stampdispensing 86 and control of commercial depository box 22 and otherfeatures 88 are displayed. The customer may choose one of these options.When the choice is made, the program logic proceeds to logic step 90where the relevant data in the file may be accessed. Thereafter, thecustomer is guided by sub-menus to execute the necessary and propertransactional command under logic step 92 where the new transaction isupdated and saved in the file of computer 60 and the session isterminated at logic step 100.

[0037] Directing attention to the embodiment of FIG. 7B, the flow chartfor the high level software program to manage the information displayedon screen 18 is shown. The program logic is active starting at logicstep 102 where a 3rd party information such as stocks, time andtemperature, news highlights and breaking news may be displayed. Thirdparty information is generally complementary and NCB may attach adisclaimer or limited liability on financial information originatingfrom such third parties. Under subsequent logic step 104 the program mayover ride or suppress the display under logic step 102 to promote thebank's own information as shown under logic step 106. For example inthis step, the assignee of the present invention, National City Bank(NCB), may display/broadcast NCB rates, product specials, service andseminars to customers at various remote locations. When, NCB utilizesthis feature, the program logic proceeds to decision step 108 where theprogram logic confirms whether to send/broadcast the same message ortailor messages to be sent to different customer locations. If thedecision is to broadcast the same message to all customer locations, theprogram logic proceeds to logic step 110 and the message is sent to allthe locations. The information may also be updated under logic step 112.The program logic advances to decision step 114 to check if the updatedmessage should be sent to all customer locations. If the decision is tosimultaneously broadcast the message to all remote centers the programlogic proceeds to do so under logic step 116 and the session terminatesunder logic step 118 from where it may revert back to logic step 102. Inthe alternate, if under logic step 108 the decision is not to broadcastto all customer stations, the program logic proceeds to decision block120 where it would be decided whether to tailor the information to eachand/or a group of customer stations. If such decision is not made, theprogram reverts back to logic step 102. If however, it is directed totailor the information, the program logic advances to logic step 122where the tailored information is broadcast to the specified customerstations. The session ends under logic step 124 and the program logicmay then revert back to logic step 102. Similarly if under decision step114 the updated information is not to be sent to all customer stationsthe program reverts back to logic step 102 and will resume to displaythe third party information.

[0038] Referring to the embodiment of FIG. 8A, a high level softwarelogic flowchart of the videoconferencing platform 14 is shown.Videoconferencing platform 14 is a customer connection engine and bringsfinancial service to as near to a person-to-person banking as possibleregardless of the location of the customer. The videoconferencingsoftware logic is remotely initiated by the client under logic step 130.The screen at portal 28 displays a set of menus under logic step 132.The menus, inter alia, are displayable under different headings todirect the customer to various sub menus and transactions. Accordingly,menu step 134 displays and relates to loans, menu step 136 relates todeposits and menu step 138 relates to services. Similarly, investmentoptions and instructions are given under menu step 140, resource toolsunder menu step 142, face-to-face interview with a banker is triggeredunder menu step 144 and promotional information and literature isreviewed under menu step 146. Further, additional services, e-mail,internet access and call center connections may be accessed under menustep 148. These menus may be displayable on a split screen segregating,for example, bank transactions from investment options and relatedinformation.

[0039] As described hereinabove, menu step 148 includes menus such asE-mail, internet and intranet connections tailored to enable thecustomer to access personal financial data directly and conduct variousfinancial transactions as needed. More specifically, menu step 148 isimplemented to provide functional options, inter alia, to enable theremote banker to open commercial depository box at remote commercialdepository platform 12 and allow the customer to deposit documents. Menustep 148 may also be used to implement additional options thus makingthe system of the present invention highly flexible to host additionalfeatures.

[0040] After a menu is selected for execution, the program logicproceeds to decision step 150 where it is ascertained if a selection ismade by the customer. If a selection is found to be made the programlogic proceeds to logic step 154 where a sub-menu is displayed for theselection. It should be noted that the program logic allows the user toexit a “current ” or “subsequent” logic step at any time to contact a“live person” or a banker under the over-ride logic step 152. Assumingthe customer does not want to interact in-person with a banker, theprogram logic proceeds to logic step 156 and executes the selection.Ultimately, the program is terminated under logic step 158 and eitherreverts back to a static subroutine status just before logic step 132 orinvites the customer to exit and ask a banker under logic step 152, goto split screen menu under logic step 148 or sign off. In the event noselection is made under decision step 150, the program logic proceeds todecision step 160 where the customer is invited to browse forinformation. If the customer chooses to browse, the program logicproceeds to logic step 164 and a set of menus is displayed. The programlogic invites the customer to exit the browse function at any time underdecision step 164. When the customer elects to exit, the program logicproceeds to logic step 166 where it reverts back to logic step 132 andenters a static subroutine. In the alternate, the customer is invited toeither exit and ask a banker under logic step 152, go to split screenmenu under logic step 148 or sign off.

[0041] The embodiment of FIG. 8B shows a high level logic flow of thesoftware for a face-to-face interview with a remote banker. Specificallywhen the customer elects to interrupt any logic step in the program ofFIG. 8A and exits to ask a banker under override logic step 152, ask abanker logic step 170 is concurrently initiated. The system proceeds tologic step 172 where an indicator/alarm is activated under logic step172. As discussed hereinabove, the alarm is to alert the remote bankerof the presence of a client requesting a person-to-person interview. Theprogram logic proceeds to decision block 173 to check if a banker isavailable. If a banker does not respond within a preset time interval,the logic advances to logic step 175 where a message includinginstructional menus are displayed at the customer station, platform 14.The message menu may include a questionnaire for the customer to leavepersonal information for later contact by a bank representative. It mayalso include invitation to access intranet data for instructions toprocess specific transactions. The menu may also provide a button toaccess other services under logic step 148. Subsequently the programlogic proceeds to logic step 174 to begin videoconferencing. The programadvances to the next stage of displaying menus for loan account underlogic/menu step 176, checking account under menu step 178 and otherquestions and transactions under menu step 180. If the remote customerelects a loan account under logic step 176 the program proceeds to logicstep 182 to follow the loan account procedure. Similarly, choices underlogic step 178 and 180 proceed to checking account procedure under logicstep 184 and bank guidelines under logic step 186, respectively. Theface-to face interview with the remote banker is terminated under logicstep 188.

[0042] The embodiment of FIGS. 9A-9D depict the assignee's preferredprocedure to process a new loan account under logic step 176. Theprocedure enables the customer to complete all transactions viavideoconferencing. Specifically, when the customer decides to have aface-to-face interview with a bank representative, the customerapproaches videoconferencing platform 14 and initiates ask a banker menuunder logic step 170. Subsequently the remote bank representative isalerted and the videoconference is started under logic step 174.Assuming that the customer wants to initiate a loan account under logicstep 176, the loan account procedure of FIGS. 9A-9D will be followedunder logic step 182. Accordingly, the bank representative ascertains ifthe customer is interested in opening a loan product; if not thecustomer is directed to the relevant product/service. When the loanaccount option is elected, the representative will discuss loan featuresto determine the appropriate loan product. The bank representative canalso provide information regarding collateral support, loan to value andpayment scenarios for the customer. Thereafter, the bank representativemay ask if the customer is interested in completing an application. Ifthe customer declines, the bank representative will print informationregarding loan alternatives and the customer will get the printout atthe remote videoconferencing platform 14. The representative may requestfor the customer's name and telephone number for follow-up purposes. Thecustomer may communicate the required personal data in person or mayenter the data using a split screen data entry menu preferably usingmenu step 148. In the alternate if the customer decides to complete anapplication, the bank representative would ask if the customer has aNational City Bank deposit account. The representative would explainthat to receive a loan or a rate incentive, the customer must also havea National City Bank checking account and if the customer has no suchaccount a deposit application will be printed at platform 14 for thecustomer to complete and scan back to the bank representative.

[0043] Yet another alternate procedure would be for the customer toaccess an application menu via a split screen, under menu step 148, andelectronically transfer the application/documents to the representativeat the bank. This is typically done by providing a set of menus on asplit screen and may also be used when the bank representative is notavailable to attend to the customer's application at platform 14.

[0044] The application may be submitted by the customer using thescanner provided at platform 14. In certain cases, the customer may needto deposit the application in commercial depository 12. Therepresentative will remotely open box 22 for the customer to deposit thedocuments. As discussed hereinabove, the customer may also enter therequired information on the split screen in accordance with the menu andguide provided under menu step 148. If the customer returns to platform14 with a completed application, the bank representative will provideinstructions on how to scan the completed application. If the supportinginformation is voluminous, the customer may need to deposit it in box 22and the banker will remotely open box 22 to allow the customer todeposit the documents in commercial depository 12.

[0045] Generally, when an application is scanned and submitted to thebanker via the scanner, the banker reviews the application and informsthe customer that the application will be reviewed within a short time,preferably not more than 48 hours, and the customer will be contacted byNBC. Subsequently, the banker may ask the customer if there are anyother additional information needed and logs in the informationregarding the receipt of the application for risk management log systemand the session is terminated. In the event the customer is unable toestablish contact with the banker, the application may be deposited inone of the drop off boxes of commercial depository 12. The applicationis then forwarded to the banker to be entered in the risk management logsystem. Thereafter, the application goes through a review andunderwriting process. Generally this involves a review of theapplication for content and completeness. The reviewed application isforwarded to the risk manager. If the loan is approved, the risk managerforwards the packet to the relationship developer who will contact thecustomer to inform the approval and to schedule a closing time.Thereafter, the final documents will be prepared for the closing. If theloan is not approved, the risk manager prepares a denial notice and therelationship developer will communicate the information to the customer.

[0046] During the approval communication with the borrower, therelationship developer may suggest closing alternatives depending uponthe scope of the transaction. The closing may be conducted in person, bymail or via videoconferencing. If videoconferencing is selected, all theborrowers are requested to be at the remote station on a specified timeand date. The identification of the borrowers including other requireddocuments are scanned and submitted to the banker. The banker reviewsthe documents and instructs the borrower to sign the documents and scanthem to bank station 40. The banker will then instruct the borrower todeposit the original in commercial depository 12 which will be picked upby a courier in due time. When the original copies of the signeddocuments are secured, the loan funding process is initiated and theinformation is communicated to the borrower (see FIG. 9E).

[0047] The embodiment of FIGS. 10A-10C depict the assignee's preferredprocedure to process the opening of a new checking account under logicstep 178. The procedure enables the customer to complete alltransactions via videoconferencing. Specifically, when the customerdecides to have a face-to-face interview with a remote bankrepresentative, the customer approaches videoconferencing platform 14and initiates an ask a banker menu under logic step 170. Subsequentlythe remote bank representative is alerted and the videoconference isstarted under logic step 178. Assuming that the customer wants toinitiate a checking account under logic step 178, the new checkingaccount procedure of FIGS. 10A-10C will be followed under logic step184. Accordingly, the bank representative ascertains if the customer isinterested in opening a checking account and if not the customer isdirected to the relevant product/service. When the new checking accountopening option is elected, the bank representative discusses accountfeatures to determine the appropriate account type. Additionally, therepresentative checks to see if the customer has adequate time to openan account contemporaneously. If not, a blank deposit application andadditional package, as needed, is printed by the bank representative forcollection by the customer at platform 14. The representative may alsoschedule a follow-up session for opening the new account.

[0048] In the alternate if the customer is ready to open a checkingaccount, the bank representative will request the customer to place apersonal identification on the scanner. Thereafter, the bankrepresentative will interview the customer and proceeds to complete theapplication. Subsequently, when the application is completed, the bankrepresentative forwards the application to the customer at platform 14.The customer signs the applications and scans it back to the bankrepresentative. A screen presentation is displayed for the customer toreview while the bank representative calls Chex Systems or equivalent.The representative checks to see if the customer has a record on ChexSystems. In the event a record is found, the representative reconnectswith the customer and explains that an account could not be openedbecause of a Chex Systems record. Alternately, if the customer has norecord on Chex Systems, the bank representative processes theapplication and informs the customer of other products such as, forexample, charge-A-check, ATM or Check Card. Subsequently, the customermay select all or some of the products suggested and the bankrepresentative prints out all the relevant documents to be received atplatform 14.

[0049] Before the customer signs all the papers and submits them via thescanner, the bank representative ascertains whether the account isindividual or joint. If the account is individual, the customer isrequired to sign the documents as needed and scan them back to the bankrepresentative. The original documents are then placed in one of theboxes of commercial depository 12. If the documents need to be depositedin box 22, the bank representative can remotely open box 22. If theaccount is a joint account, the customer signs a temporary card andscans it back to the bank. The original documents need to be signed byan additional signer and upon completion are required that they bemailed to the bank or placed in night deposit 12. In either case, thebank representative discusses options of funding the account. Some ofthe funding options which may be discussed include ACH payroll, checkdeposited with original documents in box 22 or open with a zero (orpremium) balance. Subsequently, the customer selects the preferreddeposit method and also executes a check order selection. A check orderselection may be accessed by initiating a type of checks menudisplayable on a split screen under logic step 148.

[0050] Finally, the bank representative thanks the customer for bankingwith NCB and ends the session. Thereafter, the bank representativefollows NBC's established procedures to complete the account openingprocess including the preparation and mailing of a welcome letter to theclient.

[0051] Referring now to FIG. 11 a high level software logic flow chartfor commercial depository 12 is shown. The program begins at logic step70 where the customer initiates ATM 16. Subsequently, the programproceeds to logic step 72 where a menu is displayed. The menu mayrequest the customer to enter such data as may be deemed necessary toidentify the customer. The program advances to decision step 74 where itis confirmed that all the necessary disclosure has been made or entered.In the event the customer fails to comply with the menu requirements,the program reverts back to pre logic step 72 where after apredetermined number of trials a “please contact your personal banker”message may be posted. If all the required information is entered, theprogram logic proceeds to logic step 76 and displays a set of menus fromwhich the customer is asked to choose. To activate commercial depository12, the customer would choose the commercial deposit option under logicstep 88. Subsequently, a deposit process is initiated under logic step190. After the customer enters the amount of deposit box 22 is openedfor a specified period of time. The customer should be able to open box22 and place the deposit inside within the allocated time. The programchecks the “box open timer” under decision block 192. If the timer hastimed out, the box is automatically locked under logic step 193. In thealternate if the timer has not timed out, the program logic advances todecision block 195 where the system is checked for a malfunction. If nomalfunction is noted, the program logic reverts back to logic step 190and the customer is required to insert his/her card and activate the“box open timer”. If after a preset number of trials, the box fails toopen, a “please contact the banker” message will be posted on the screenat ATM 16. In the alternate, if a system malfunction is detected,security alert is posted at the bank under logic step 196. Accordingly,after the system is checked and the problem rectified the system alarmis reset under logic step 198. Generally, customers who routinely usethe commercial depository box 22 are issued a different type of cardwhich is keyed to open box 22 via ATM 16. Thus, the customer will usethe card to enter the amount of deposit and as well to open the box.Further, as described hereinabove, a bank representative is also able toopen box 22, under logic step 148, remotely to allow viodeoconferencecustomers to deposit documents which may be too large to scan.

[0052] Referring now to the embodiment of FIG. 12, a block diagramrepresenting the operational interface enhanced ATM platform 10,commercial depository 12, videoconference/platform 14 and informationdisplay 15 are shown. These modules are interfaced via interface 17which includes a data, image and software interface system with operableelectronic connections to central computer 60 at the bank. Bankrepresentative station 40 and call center 41 are also connected tointerface 17. Accordingly, the modules comprising customer and bankstation are integrated and structured to provide the many advantages andadvances of the present invention. As discussed hereinabove, information15 includes 3rd party information such as internet, news etc. Further itincludes information from the bank, and provides access to bank relatednews and services. Moreover, call center 41 is a customer service orequivalent platform available to provide third party services such asinsurance, travel, investment and similar services which are of generalinterest to the customer. For example, information source 15 may displaya certain service of interest and call center 41 is able to host allorders and questions related to that service. Furthermore, the customermay interact with call center 41 via portals 18, 24 and 30 to purchasethe services from the third party sponsor.

[0053] While the preferred embodiments of the present invention havebeen shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the artthat changes, variations and modifications may be made therein withoutdeparting from the present invention in its broader aspects.

[0054] Thus, although the present invention has been described withreference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art willrecognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention in its broader aspects and,therefor, the aim in the appended claims is to cover such changes andmodifications as fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An interactive point access financial and information system for providing financial services and processing transactions wherein a customer at a remote location from a bank is able to access and execute a plurality of desired transactions including deposits, withdrawals, loans and further exchange information with a bank representative in real-time on a face-to-face basis, the system comprising: a remote ATM, a depository and videoconferencing device; a customer station; a bank representative station including a central processor; and data, sound and image processing means including interface means operably coupled to said customer station, said bank representative station and said central computer, said customer station including at least one data entry port to initiate access and execute the plurality of desired transactions including videoconferencing with a bank representative at said bank representative station via said interface means and said bank representative station and said central processor having operable electrical and data communications with said data, sound and image processing means to enable said bank representative to interact with the customer in real-time and further provide the customer access to said central processor.
 2. The system of claim 1 further including an information source incorporated therewith to provide third party information.
 3. The system of claim 1 further including a call center incorporated therewith to enable customer interaction with third party product and service sponsors.
 4. The system according to claim 1 wherein said ATM provides interactive menus displayable on a screen to enable the customer to execute said transactions.
 5. The system according to claim 1 wherein said depository includes a security box which is operable via command functions at said ATM.
 6. The system according to claim 1 wherein said depository includes a security box which is operable via command functions at said bank representative station.
 7. The system according to claim 1 wherein said videoconferencing device includes an interactive terminal with screen displayable menus.
 8. An interactive point access financial and information system for processing transactions wherein at least one customer and a bank are able to remotely exchange real-time data, sound and image to process transactions based on the customer's choices, the system comprising: a remote data, image and sound initiation device; a customer station; a banking center including a bank representative station and a central processor; and a plurality of data, sound and image processing means including interface means operably coupled to said customer station and said banking center, said customer station including at least one data entry port to initiate access and execute a plurality of desired transactions including videoconferencing with a bank representative located at said bank representative station via said interface means and said bank representative station and said central processor having operable electrical and data communications with said data, sound and image processing means to enable said bank representative to interact with the customer in real-time and further provide the customer access to said central processor.
 9. The system of claim 8 wherein said initiation device includes a software program implemented in said central processor to perform several interactive operations at an ATM platform, a videoconferencing platform and a depository platform.
 10. The system according to claim 9 wherein said software program includes structured steps to enable said at least one customer to communicate from a remotely located station with said banking center.
 11. The system according to claim 10 wherein said structured steps include a set of menus to enable said at least one customer to execute various transactions at said customer station.
 12. The system according to claim 11 wherein said software program includes interactive menus dedicated to an ATM, a videoconferencing and a commercial depository platform.
 13. The system according to claim 12 wherein said menu at the ATM includes structured steps for cash withdrawal, balance enquiry, fund transfers, financial profile, ticket dispensing options, and operating a box at said commercial depository platform.
 14. The system according to claim 13 wherein said structured steps include steps for loans, deposits, services, investment, resource tools, promotions and additional services access including the option to interact with a banking representative in person.
 15. A method of providing an interactive point access banking and information system wherein a person at a remote location from a bank is able to access and execute transactions and optionally is able to hold a video-conferencing session with the bank representative in real-time, comprising the system-implemented steps of: providing a remote data, image and sound reception and transmission platform; providing means for initiating contact with the bank; providing means for alerting a bank representative to respond to a videoconference call from the customer station; and providing interface means for a two-way data transmission and reception.
 16. A remote interactive point access virtual financial and information system including a virtual retail work station wherein an ATM, a commercial depository, a videoconferencing and information and transaction platforms are integrated to provide an expandable interactive financial module, the system comprising: a videoconferencing station; a commercial depository station; an ATM station; a bank center; means for displaying information; a central processor; said videoconferencing, said night depository, said ATM, said bank center and said means for displaying information being in communication with said central processor; and means for communicating information and means for executing transactions structured to cooperate with said videoconferencing station, said night depository station, said ATM station, said central processor and said bank center, interface means to access account information and exchange data between said videoconferencing station, said night depository, said ATM station, said bank center, said means for displaying information and said computer. 